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Former Indian batsman Aakash Chopra has strongly criticized spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar over his place in the India national cricket team. Washington Sundar has been a part of India’s plans for many years, but Chopra doesn’t feel he is doing enough to remain a regular member of the ODI setup.
With competition increasing in every department, Sundar faces an uphill battle to secure his future, especially as India begin preparations for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2027. However, he is currently part of India’s ODI series against Afghanistan.
Aakash Chopra explains why Washington Sundar is struggling to cement his place in Team India
Aakash Chopra, who recently made a bold statement on the India vs Pakistan rivalry, boldly predicted that it could be really tough for Washington Sundar to remain in contention if his role in the India national cricket team in ODIs is not clear.
He also pointed out that the current Indian team management gives importance to players who can contribute in more than one area. Under Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir, multi-skilled cricketers are seen as a big advantage as they provide additional balance and flexibility to the playing eleven.
In such a situation, the well-known cricket pundit believes that Sundar does not fit in because he often bats in the lower order and does not get enough opportunities to showcase his batting ability. Additionally, the off-spinner has barely been used with the ball, so the overall impact has been limited.
What does he really bring? Aakash Chopra raised questions on the role of Washington Sundar
And Chopra said this is becoming a serious concern for the left-hander’s future. If a player is not making strong contributions with bat or ball on a regular basis, it becomes difficult to carve out a permanent place in the highly competitive Indian team.
“What does the Indian team need? The Indian team needs a player who can do two things. And as a coach, Gautam Gambhir absolutely loves the fact that a player has two skill sets. One who can bat and bowl,” Aakash Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.
And if seen in a way, Washington Sundar is not able to secure a place in the team. Because he does not know how to bat and bats at a lower position. And if they don’t make him bowl, what will he be able to do?”
Aakash Chopra gives big World Cup verdict on Washington Sundar’s future
The Indian batsman also predicted that Sundar will not be a part of India’s ICC World Cup 2027 squad. Although Chopra feels he can still be useful in specific match situations, there is no guarantee of his selection in the squad for the ODI competition as India already have a number of all-rounder and spin-bowling options competing for places, making the battle even tougher.
Chopra signed off by saying, “I’ll be very honest with the way things are going. I don’t see him around in the ODI World Cup squad. However, it’s possible they’ll still keep him in the squad to use him in certain situations.”
For example, if you have three left-handed players in front of you, he can play. But there is a story of if or but. It is still not being used well. And if this continues then he will not be able to stay in the team for long. This is the reality.”
